The in-flight entertainment system industry in Europe is a dynamic sector dedicated to enhancing passenger experiences aboard commercial aircraft. Companies in this space create systems that provide entertainment, connectivity, and vital information to travelers. Major players range from established manufacturers like Thales and Airbus to innovative startups focused on the latest technologies such as streaming services and virtual reality. As airlines increasingly prioritize customer satisfaction, the industry is shifting towards integrated solutions that enhance the passenger experience, promoting higher customer loyalty. Investments in advanced connectivity and immersive entertainment are on the rise, shaping the future of air travel.


The following list presents a mix of investors actively funding the in-flight entertainment system sector in Europe. These investors vary in type, from venture capital firms like Kima Ventures and Amadeus Capital Partners to large corporate players such as Safran and Airbus. With headquarters spread across key cities like Paris and London, they range in size and resources, boasting substantial deal counts in 2024. Established between 1981 and 2015, these investors demonstrate a keen interest in the evolving landscape of in-flight services and technologies, contributing significantly to the industry's growth and innovation.


Top 18 in Flight Entertainment System Investors in Europe


1. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération


Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a venture capital firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2015. As a public entity and financial institution, Bpifrance supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally through various services, including direct funding and private equity investments. The firm aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, helping businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Notably, Bpifrance has been involved in several transactions relevant to the aviation sector, including a €17 million Series B investment in Expliseat, a company specializing in lightweight aircraft seating solutions, which enhances the in-flight experience. Additionally, they participated in a €20 million funding round for Beyond Aero, indicating their commitment to supporting innovative technologies in the aviation industry. These investments highlight Bpifrance's strategic focus on sectors that can influence in-flight entertainment and overall passenger experience.


2. Airbus

  • Website: airbus.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Blagnac, Occitanie, France
  • Founded year: 2003
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 6
  • LinkedIn: airbusgroup

Airbus SE is a leading aerospace manufacturer based in Blagnac, Occitanie, France, specializing in the design and production of commercial aircraft, helicopters, defense systems, and space technology. Founded in 2003, Airbus serves a global customer base, including airlines and military organizations, and is committed to sustainability and advancing aerospace technology. Notable transactions include the acquisition of NavTech in 2015, which provides flight operations products and services, aligning with Airbus's strategy to enhance its digitalization and services offerings. Additionally, the acquisition of Metron Aviation in 2011 further supports their focus on improving operational efficiency in aviation. These strategic moves indicate Airbus's potential interest in the in-flight entertainment system sector, as they seek to enhance connectivity and passenger experience.


3. Safran

  • Website: safran-group.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 9
  • LinkedIn: safran

Safran is a prominent aerospace manufacturer and defense contractor based in Paris, Île-De-France, France. Founded in 2005, the company specializes in aircraft equipment, propulsion systems, and defense technologies, serving a diverse clientele that includes aircraft manufacturers and military organizations. Safran has made significant strides in the aerospace sector, notably through its acquisition of Zodiac Aerospace in 2017 for approximately $9 billion. This acquisition not only bolstered Safran's position in the aerospace market but also integrated capabilities related to in-flight entertainment systems. Furthermore, Safran Corporate Ventures led a Series A funding round for SkyFive AG in 2021, a company that focuses on advanced connectivity solutions, which are crucial for enhancing in-flight entertainment experiences. These strategic moves highlight Safran's commitment to innovation and improving operational efficiency in aviation, making it a relevant player in the in-flight entertainment system industry.


4. Thales

  • Website: thalesgroup.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Meudon, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1979
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: thales

Thales Group is a technology company founded in 1979, headquartered in Meudon, Île-De-France, France. It specializes in designing, developing, and manufacturing advanced electrical systems and devices for various sectors, including aerospace, defense, transportation, and security. Thales serves a diverse clientele, including both governments and commercial enterprises, providing solutions that enhance operational efficiency and safety. Notably, Thales has made strategic acquisitions to bolster its presence in the aviation sector, such as the acquisition of AvioVision in 2016, which offers the AVIOBOOK platform used by over 25 airlines and 900 aircraft. This acquisition reflects Thales's commitment to digitalization in aviation, which is closely related to in-flight entertainment systems. Additionally, Thales's recent acquisition of Cobham Aerospace Communications and Get SAT further demonstrates its focus on enhancing communication and entertainment capabilities within the aerospace industry.


5. Kima Ventures

  • Website: kimaventures.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 50
  • LinkedIn: kima-ventures

Kima Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage startups across various sectors, backing two startups per week with financial support and mentorship. Notable transactions include investments in companies like Fairlyne, which raised $3 million in seed funding to develop a platform for the travel industry, indicating Kima's interest in sectors that overlap with travel and potentially in-flight entertainment. They have also invested in Duffel, a travel technology company that raised significant funding, further showcasing their engagement in the travel ecosystem. Kima Ventures' diverse portfolio and active investment strategy position them as a potential player in the in-flight entertainment system industry.


6. Liberty Global

  • Website: libertyglobal.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 7
  • LinkedIn: liberty-global

Liberty Global Ltd. is a telecommunications company based in London, England, providing a wide range of services including gigabit broadband, 5G mobile services, and entertainment platforms. Founded in 2005, the company operates across multiple European countries, leveraging its extensive network infrastructure to serve both consumers and businesses. Notably, Liberty Global has made significant investments in companies that are pivotal to satellite communications, which are essential for in-flight entertainment systems. For instance, their investment in NSLComm during its Series B funding round supports the development of satellite technology, which is directly applicable to enhancing in-flight connectivity. Additionally, Liberty Global's previous investments in Kymeta and SES Networks, both of which focus on satellite communications, further demonstrate their strategic interest in technologies that can improve data and voice solutions in various sectors, including aviation.


7. Ldc

  • Website: ldc.co.uk
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1981
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 15
  • LinkedIn: ldc

Lloyds Development Capital (LDC) is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 1981. As part of Lloyds Banking Group, LDC specializes in providing growth capital and strategic support to mid-market businesses across various sectors. The firm focuses on fostering long-term partnerships to drive business success through investment and advisory services. LDC has made significant investments in the aviation sector, including the acquisition of AIM Altitude on June 30, 2010, and Airline Services Interiors on March 23, 2012, both of which are involved in in-flight services and entertainment. Additionally, LDC's recent investment in 15below, a software developer for automated passenger communications, highlights their ongoing commitment to enhancing the travel experience, further solidifying their relevance in the in-flight entertainment system context.


8. Amadeus

  • Website: amadeus.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Madrid, Madrid, Spain
  • Founded year: 1987
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: amadeus

Amadeus IT Group, S.A., founded in 1987 and based in Madrid, Spain, is a leading travel technology provider that offers software solutions tailored for the global travel and tourism industry. Their products cater to airlines, hotels, travel agencies, and other travel-related businesses, helping them automate processes and enhance customer experiences. Amadeus operates through a SaaS model, providing integrated solutions that streamline operations in the travel sector. Notably, Amadeus has made significant acquisitions to bolster its position in the airline industry, including the acquisition of Navitaire for $830 million, which aims to enhance offerings for low-cost and hybrid carriers. Additionally, their acquisition of Kambr focuses on revenue management solutions for airlines, further solidifying their role in the airline sector. Their participation in funding rounds for companies like Volantio, which is involved in optimizing airline operations, also highlights their commitment to enhancing airline services, including in-flight entertainment systems.


9. Index Ventures

  • Website: indexventures.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 67
  • LinkedIn: index-ventures

Index Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 1996, based in London, England. The firm invests in innovative startups across various sectors, including technology and healthcare, providing capital and strategic support to entrepreneurs. They focus on building long-term partnerships with founders to drive success. Notably, Index Ventures has invested in Duffel, a company that is transforming global travel booking systems, with significant funding rounds including $30 million in Series B and $21.5 million in Series A. These investments highlight their interest in the travel sector, which is closely related to in-flight entertainment systems, as both aim to enhance the travel experience for consumers.


10. Amadeus Capital Partners


Amadeus Capital Partners is a London-based venture capital firm founded in 1997, specializing in technology investments across various sectors, including AI, Cyber Security, and FinTech. The firm is known for providing funding and strategic support to startups and growth-stage companies to help them scale operations and bring innovative technologies to market. Notably, Amadeus has invested in Nomad Digital, which raised over $10 million in a venture round in 2008, focusing on connectivity solutions for the transport sector, including aviation. This investment aligns with the in-flight entertainment system context, as connectivity is a crucial component of modern in-flight entertainment experiences. Additionally, their investment in e-Go aeroplanes, which raised funds through equity crowdfunding, showcases their interest in aviation-related technologies, further supporting their relevance in the in-flight entertainment industry.


11. 3i Group plc

  • Website: 3i.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1945
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: 3i-group-plc

3i Group plc is a London-based private equity and infrastructure investment firm founded in 1945. The firm specializes in providing capital and expertise to mid-market companies, helping them grow sustainably. With a strong international presence and a diverse portfolio, 3i Group aims to create value for its stakeholders through strategic investments. Notably, 3i has been involved in several transactions relevant to the entertainment sector, including a $40 million investment in TouchTunes Interactive Networks, a company focused on expanding its digital jukebox offerings across North America and into Asia and Europe. This investment highlights 3i's engagement in the entertainment industry, which is closely related to in-flight entertainment systems. Additionally, their acquisition of Belfast City Airport indicates their interest in infrastructure that supports travel and transportation, further aligning with the in-flight entertainment context.


12. Ardian

  • Website: ardian.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 21
  • LinkedIn: ardian

Ardian is a prominent investment management firm based in Paris, specializing in private equity, real assets, and credit solutions. Founded in 1996, Ardian has established a global presence and focuses on sustainable finance, aiming to create lasting value for its clients, which include institutional investors, family offices, and pension funds. Notably, Ardian has been involved in significant transactions within the airport sector, such as the acquisition of a substantial equity interest in Alvest, a company that provides essential ground support equipment for airports. This acquisition aims to enhance Alvest's capacity and support its development strategy. Additionally, Ardian is in exclusive negotiations to acquire a majority stake in Alstef Group, which specializes in automated and robotic solutions for airport logistics. These transactions highlight Ardian's commitment to investing in companies that improve airport operations, which is closely related to the in-flight entertainment system industry.


13. Apax

  • Website: apax.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1981
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: apax-partners

Apax Partners LLP is a private equity firm based in London, England, specializing in managing investments across various sectors, including technology, internet/consumer, healthcare, and services. Founded in 1981, Apax collaborates with management teams of high-potential companies to drive growth and innovation. Notably, Apax has been involved in several transactions relevant to the aviation and communication sectors. For instance, they acquired a minority stake in IBS Software, a company that provides technology solutions for the aviation industry. They also invested in Vueling Airlines, which raised significant funds in 2004, indicating their interest in the airline sector. Furthermore, Apax's acquisition of Marlink, a commercial satellite communication business, highlights their engagement in technologies that could enhance in-flight connectivity and entertainment systems. These transactions reflect Apax's strategic approach to investing in sectors that intersect with in-flight entertainment systems, making them a noteworthy investor in this space.


14. Cvc

  • Website: cvc.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Luxembourg
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 16
  • LinkedIn: cvc-capital-partners

CVC Capital Partners is a prominent private equity firm based in Luxembourg, founded in 2005. It specializes in private equity, credit, secondaries, and infrastructure, managing approximately €193 billion in assets for over 1000 clients, including pension funds and institutional investors. CVC focuses on delivering sustainable value and growth through strategic investments. Notable transactions relevant to the in-flight entertainment system context include the acquisition of Etraveli, a global flight-centric online travel agency, for €508 million, which aims to expand its international presence in the travel sector. Additionally, CVC's acquisition of CTC Moyson Airport Equipment and its investment in Avolon Holdings, an aircraft leasing group, further highlight its involvement in the aviation industry. These investments reflect CVC's commitment to enhancing the travel experience, which is integral to in-flight entertainment systems.


15. Bayern Kapital

  • Website: bayernkapital.de
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Landshut, Bavaria, Germany
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 27
  • LinkedIn: bayern-kapital-gmbh

Bayern Kapital is a venture capital firm based in Landshut, Bavaria, Germany, founded in 1995. The firm specializes in providing investment and growth capital to innovative high-tech startups and scale-ups in Bavaria. They support their clients with financial resources and access to a network of industry experts, helping them navigate the challenges of growth and development in sectors such as life sciences and software. Notably, Bayern Kapital has invested in Inflight VR Software GmbH, which focuses on virtual reality solutions for in-flight entertainment, showcasing their engagement in the aviation sector. Additionally, they have been involved in various other transactions, including investments in companies like Quantum Systems and Reflex Aerospace, indicating a broader interest in advanced technologies that could intersect with the aviation and entertainment industries.


16. International Airlines Group (IAG)


International Airlines Group (IAG) is a corporate investor based in London, England, founded in 2011. It operates several well-known airlines, including British Airways and Iberia, providing passenger and cargo air transportation services. IAG emphasizes sustainability and global connectivity in its operations. Notably, IAG has participated in strategic investments that align with enhancing airline services, such as its involvement in Volantio, which raised $2.6M in Series B financing to improve post-booking revenue and capacity optimization for airlines. This investment reflects IAG's commitment to leveraging technology to enhance passenger experiences, which is closely related to in-flight entertainment systems. Additionally, IAG's acquisition of Air Europa for over $1 billion further demonstrates its strategic growth in the airline sector, potentially impacting in-flight services, including entertainment offerings.


17. SES Satellites

  • Website: ses.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Betzdorf, Grevenmacher, Luxembourg
  • Founded year: 1985
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 2
  • LinkedIn: ses

SES S.A., founded in 1985 and based in Betzdorf, Luxembourg, is a leading satellite telecommunications provider that operates a fleet of over 70 satellites, ensuring global coverage for various sectors including broadcasting, government, and maritime. In 2024, SES announced its acquisition of U.S.-based Intelsat for $3.1 billion, which is expected to create the world's largest satellite services provider, enhancing their capabilities in providing connectivity solutions crucial for in-flight entertainment systems. Additionally, SES's acquisition of RR Media in 2016 for $242 million aimed to create a leading provider of media solutions, further supporting their role in the media distribution necessary for in-flight entertainment. Their strategic investments and acquisitions demonstrate a commitment to expanding their service offerings in the telecommunications and media sectors, making them a relevant player in the in-flight entertainment system market.


18. Innovacom

  • Website: innovacom.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1988
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • Number of deals in 2024: 10
  • LinkedIn: innovacom

Innovacom is a venture capital firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 1988. The firm specializes in supporting startups through investment and strategic advisory services, focusing on financing innovative projects in technology and industry. Innovacom has been actively involved in various sectors, including aviation, as evidenced by its investments in companies like Wingly, a flight-sharing platform that raised €3 million to enhance its commercial aviation services, and Elixir Aircraft, which focuses on low-carbon light aircraft. These investments highlight Innovacom's commitment to fostering innovation in the aviation industry, which is relevant to the in-flight entertainment system sector. In 2024 alone, Innovacom has made 10 investments, showcasing its active role in supporting emerging businesses and technologies.



in Flight Entertainment System Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Bpifrance French Tech AccélérationParis, Île-De-France, France1-102015198
AirbusBlagnac, Occitanie, France10001+20036
SafranParis, Île-De-France, France10001+20059
ThalesMeudon, Île-De-France, France10001+19795
Kima VenturesParis, Île-De-France, France1-10201050
Liberty GlobalLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)10001+20057
LdcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200198115
AmadeusMadrid, Madrid, Spain10001+19873
Index VenturesLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200199667
Amadeus Capital PartnersLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-5019977
3i Group plcLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-50019453
ArdianParis, Île-De-France, France1001-5000199621
ApaxLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-50019818
CvcLuxembourg1001-5000200516
Bayern KapitalLandshut, Bavaria, Germany11-50199527
International Airlines Group (IAG)London, England, United Kingdom (UK)10001+20111
SES SatellitesBetzdorf, Grevenmacher, Luxembourg1001-500019852
InnovacomParis, Île-De-France, France1-10198810


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